A team of researchers have looked into the possibility of tracking the progression of Gum Disease through the use of saliva samples. Managing the progression of gum disease is notoriously difficult, posing problems for both dentists and patients. But these new findings could change this and offer improvements in controlling gum disease.
A team from Metro South Oral Health in Australia are carrying out research to combine advanced 3D printing with Artificial Intelligence (AI) [1].
This research has the goal of improving both the precision and speed of creating dental prosthetics like dentures and crowns [1].
The research will hopefully have a very positive impact on the dental industry, and could prove to be transformative.
About Dental Prosthetics
Dental prosthetics are an important part of oral health. They refer to any dental appliance that replaces a missing tooth or covers a defect.
For example, they include implants, crowns, dentures, veneers and bridges. They can be used for both routine care and cosmetic procedures.
Dental prosthetics are highly popular, and have led to significant oral health improvements for many people. For instance, those that have missing teeth have been able to use implants to restore the look of their teeth.
However, prosthetics are not perfect. The process of getting them to fit can be difficult, time-consuming, and unfortunately, does not always produce the desired result.
Therefore, any effort to try and improve this process is highly sought after. Improving the comfort and effectiveness of these appliances can improve treatment outcomes.
Improving dental prosthetics
There have been positive recent updates from a team from Metro South Oral Health in Australia [1].
Key areas in this research include advanced 3D printing and AI. Previous research has already identified that 3D printing could have a positive impact on the design of dental prosthetics [2].
3D printing is able to produce incredibly precise results, and the team have been leveraging AI to improve the speed and efficiency of the process of creating prosthetics.
The team, led by dental technicians David Hayes and Sam Llyod, have been carrying out various experiments [1].
A starting point for their research was hollow dentures, which are used to replace large amounts of bone and tissue. Dentists typically find it challenging to ensure such dentures are light enough for comfort, yet strong enough to be durable [1].
The team experimented with the hollow dentures, using materials (which they declined to disclose) to do so [1]. They experimented with 3D printing.
Hayes explained that “the accuracy of 3D printing is unparalleled” [1]. Continuing, he states “we’re talking about precision down to 25 microns – about the width of a human hair” [1].
Hayes says that “it’s so accurate that we can create titanium teeth that fit directly into the sockets, something that was previously unthinkable” [1].
Moreover, AI is also able to assist. For example, AI algorithms are able to detect discrepancies in bones and tissues with excellent accuracy, which should help to detect any nuances required in prosthetics in order to fit the patient [1].
In practice, this means that the team can now see the exact angle of the roots of teeth, which would ensure any prosthetic does not interfere with important structures like the sinuses [1].
The example of cleft palates
The team have already put this theory into practice as a treatment for those with the common birth defect of cleft palates. Those with cleft palates are at an increased risk of oral health problems [3].
Moreover, the team have already produced obturators using 3D printing. These are appliances that are designed to help patients with cleft palates or facial injuries [1].
Those with cleft palates need to take care in order to ensure food or liquid does not come out of the nose. The 3D-printed obturators are lightweight, and form a perfect seal [1].
These obturators have already had a positive impact, with some patients already using them. Therefore, they have found them to be very precise, and as mentioned, they have sealed perfectly to ensure effectiveness [1].
Lead member of the team Sam Llyod, reflected on feedback to the obturators, saying that “for patients who have had difficult journeys, like those with cleft palates or major facial injuries, the ability to provide a lightweight, perfectly fitting prosthetic is more than just a technical achievement – it’s about restoring confidence and improving quality of life” [4].
Summary
While progress has already been made with obturators for cleft palates, the team hope to further their work – and use the technology to improve other prosthetics.
The team are collaborating with surgeons in order to apply these innovations in real clinical scenarios [1].
This collaboration is providing surgeons with improved insights into patient anatomy, aiding better decisions and improved patient treatment outcomes [1].
These efforts should have a positive effect, especially on improving the effectiveness of prosthetics, and speeding up their creation [1].
Thinking points…
[1] We mentioned earlier about some of the most popular dental prosthetics – including dentures, crowns and implants. Here at our Calgary dental clinic Taradale Dental, we offer free consultations for dentures, crowns, bridges and implants. We would love to have a discussion with you about potential treatments – they could transform your smile! Find out more about us at our website – https://taradaledental.ca/!
[2] While sometimes it can’t be avoided, ideally our oral health won’t deteriorate to the point where prosthetics are needed. One of the best ways of keeping your oral health strong is to attend regular dental appointments. These appointments allow a dentist to take a look at your oral health. If any problems are identified, then solutions can be put forward. We recommend booking an appointment now!
What we offer at Taradale Dental
Taradale Dental is a dental clinic based in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. At our Calgary dental clinic, we provide a range of services for our patients.
We advise our patients to attend our Calgary dental clinic at least twice per year for a regular dental check-up. At these check-ups, we provide a comprehensive review of a patient’s oral health. If any problems are detected, we have many treatments available. For example, these include cavity fillings and root canals. To strengthen your oral health, we recommend brushing your teeth at least twice a day and flossing regularly.
Here at Taradale Dental, we also have some cosmetic treatments available! These include dental implants, teeth whitening and Invisalign™! Our patients find that these treatments have a positive impact on their appearance, confidence and self-esteem.
Moreover, the fees of our treatments at our Calgary dental clinic Taradale Dental are set in line with the Alberta Dental Fee Guide. This ensures transparent and fair pricing, with no hidden costs.
We hope to see you soon at our Taradale Dental clinic in Calgary! You can find out more about us by visiting our website https://taradaledental.ca/!
References
[1] Queensland Government. (2025). A byte into the future with 3D printing and AI in digital dentistry. Available: https://www.metrosouth.health.qld.gov.au/about-us/news/a-byte-into-the-future-with-3d-printing-and-ai-in-digital-dentistry. Last accessed: 17th January 2025.
[2] Rezaie, F., Farshbaf, M., Dahri, M., et al. (2023). 3D Printing of Dental Prostheses: Current and Emerging Applications. Journal of Composites Science. 7 (2): 80. DOI: https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs7020080.
[3] Lages, E. M. B., Marcos, B., & Pordeus, I. A. (2004). Oral Health of Individuals with Cleft Lip, Cleft Palate, or Both. The Cleft Palate of Craniofacial Journal. 41 (1). DOI: https://doi.org/10.1597/02-058.
[4] Oral Health. (2025). ‘New obturators’: Australian team combines 3D printing, AI and new materials for fine-tuned dental prosthetics. Available: https://www.oralhealthgroup.com/oral-health/new-obturators-australian-team-combines-3d-printing-ai-and-new-materials-for-fine-tuned-dental-prosthetics-1003983676/. Last accessed: 17th January 2025.
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